Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City secured a 2-0 victory over FC Porto in their opening Champions League match under manager Enzo Maresca on Tuesday.
The Norwegian striker endured a frustrating first half at the Estadio do Dragao, missing several opportunities as Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa produced a series of impressive saves.
Haaland came close to opening the scoring in the 21st minute after Phil Foden delivered a cross into the box, but Costa reacted quickly to deny him.
The City forward then headed over from another promising position before Costa made a superb double save to keep out Haaland’s low effort and Rayan Cherki’s follow-up.
However, Haaland needed only two minutes after the restart to make amends.
The striker rose to meet Enzo Fernandez’s cross and directed his header beyond Costa and into the net via the post to put City ahead.
Porto grew into the game after falling behind, although the Portuguese side struggled to seriously test Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Alan Varela came closest when he curled an effort narrowly wide from outside the penalty area, while William Gomes almost capitalised on a mistake by Donnarumma late in the match.
City eventually put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time.
Rayan Ait-Nouri worked his way to the byline before cutting the ball back for Haaland, who calmly finished to complete his brace and seal all three points.
Despite the victory, City were far from their best and allowed Porto to gain confidence during the second half.
The result nevertheless gives Maresca a winning start to his first Champions League campaign as Manchester City boss, although the manager will know his side must improve ahead of Sunday’s Manchester derby against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Haaland’s two goals also ensured City avoided another nervy finish and began their European campaign with maximum points.
